PROTESTS gathered at the hearing for Lydiate Marina proposal with the Planning Inspectorate to appeal against a decision by Sefton Council.

Around 30 residents turned up to the meeting to oppose the development plans on farmland in Bells Lane, Lydiate.

The development is proposed for the west side of the Liverpool-Leeds Canal and will hold 135 boats.

The open hearing took place at Bootle Town Hall on July 26 and was carried over to the next day.

Opposing the marina are Wendy and Peter Greener, who live on Seafore Close.

They formed a group and scoured the area to gain support to stop the development.

Wendy told the Star: “It will be about four weeks until we hear the outcome. We are a little optimistic and we hope there was a good case put forward to keep the green belt land.

“There is no need for a marina here, there is one in Scarisbrick with 130 empty berths.”

Plans for the marina were rejected last October when councillors refused it, despite planning officers recommending it for approval.

Then in May, a last minute appeal was lodged by Lydiate Marina Company to the Planning Inspectorate.

It was refused on the grounds that the best farming land would be lost and it contravened Sefton’s green belt policy.

A 250-named petition was gathered during the consultation process.

Wendy added: “Our main arguments were that the marina would destroy grade one arable land at a time when food prices are escalating because of climate change and growing world population.

“There is only 2% of grade one land in the UK.

“Secondly, the marina would increase traffic which is already too heavy for the narrow lane and single track swing bridge.

“Money from the marina suggested by developers is a huge exaggeration, even in the very unlikely event of the marina being full.

“The idea is a shameful waste of green belt land on something which is unnecessary, and will spoil the country views if the proposed 3m hedges are put around. It will not do a single thing to increase revenue or tourism.”

The Planning Inspectorate will announce their decision in about four weeks time.